You don’t need to be a history buff to visit the famous courthouse in Nuremberg where the trials of the leaders of the Nazi party were held following the end of WWII. It is a stark reminder of the horrors that people are capable of when their power is left unchecked. It was also probably the most notable use of international law to punish those who committed the atrocities of the Holocaust as well as other war crimes. The courthouse is a short distance from the old town area of Nuremberg, but it is worth taking the time to visit this famous location.
As you take your self-guided tour of the courthouse, there are video stations at the different seats that allow you to see actual footage of the court hearings and listen to the prosecutors, judges, defendants, and others giving testimony. Hearing and seeing these moments from the past is certainly fascinating, although it is almost seems a little surreal. It is important for all generations to understand the significance of what occurred during this horrific period of our history. As you watch the trials through the footage taken at the time, you understand that these were real people, not just mythological figures in history books, who made decisions that seem unfathomable to us now.
Visiting courthouses and prisons aren’t often on the top of anyone’s trip itinerary, but there are times when it is important to make a point to visit these places. As a society, we turn these types of places into museums and historical landmarks as reminder of not only what happened, but also what the human race is capable of if we turn a blind eye to events that unfold around us. These might not be the most beautiful locations, nor should they be, but that doesn’t necessarily lesson the impression that they make upon you.
This is fascinating. The building is evocative of the gravity of its history.
Thankyou for posting about this, it’s definately being added into our itinerary when me and my boyfriend go to Nuremburg! Is there a cost to enter? 🙂
There is a cost, we don’t remember how much, but it was minimal.
Fascinating post, one of those iconic places that just has to be visited when you’re in that part of Germany. My uncle was a guard at the trials too so would be even more interesting. Interesting stuff.
It would be interesting to hear your uncles thoughts on the courthouse and how accurately they represent what happened.